Dry Skin Owner’s Manual

What Causes Dry Skin?

Dry skin is a problem for many people, especially in cool weather when the air is dry. Dry air causes the skin to lose moisture and then chap and crack. These chapped, cracked areas may become irritated and itchy. The dry skin rash sometimes forms round patches that resemble ringworm.

Supplies
Water: NO HOT WATER. Hot water dries the skin because it evaporates faster taking with it the moisture of the skin. Use lukewarm or cool water to shower.

Soap: Stay away from anything actually called “soap” which may be most drying. Use cleansers such as Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser (liquid) or Dove (bar) or CeraVé.*

Moisturizer: Use cream rather than moisturizer.* Creams have a lower water content and therefore produce more moisturization.* I recommend Cetaphil Cream or Eucerin Cream or CeraVé.*

Lubricating Routine

Shower/bathe once a day.

Only use cleanser on your face, hands, feet, armpits and groin.*

DO NOT use cleanser on the areas of your body with dry skin, water only.*

After rinsing, lightly towel off.

Apply medication and/or moisturizer within 45 seconds of exiting the shower.* This traps the moisture in before it can evaporate.* Apply your medication (e.g. steroids) first, and then apply moisturizer to all other areas. Excess can be wiped off with your bath towel or a tissue.

Long Term Control
Dry skin is usually a long-term problem that recurs often, especially in winter. When you notice your skin getting dry, resume your lubricating routine, and carefully avoid the use of soap.* If the itchy dry skin rash returns, use the lubricating routine and the prescription cortisone cream or ointment.*

If your dry skin persists or you notice patches or severe skin cracking, call or reply to this e-mail to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rubinstein. Medical insurance may cover the cost of your consultation as well as treatment.

Featured Treatment

PRP with Microneedling

PRP has been shown to have overall rejuvenating effects on the skin, such as improving skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles; increasing volume via the increased production of collagen and elastin; and by diminishing and improving the appearance of acne scars.*